The Collins College of Hospitality Management will feature Peter Arceo, Chief Gaming Officer of Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel as the 2026 Richard Frank Distinguished Lecture on Thursday, April 23, exploring the strategies and technologies shaping the future of the hospitality and gaming industries.
Arceo oversees strategy and growth for Yaamava’, operated by the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, California’s largest casino and the second most-visited destination in the state after Disneyland, attracting more than 14 million visitors annually. He is widely recognized for transforming Yaamava’ into a premier luxury destination and advancing innovation in guest experience and resort development. Arceo also leads operations across a broader portfolio that includes Palms Casino Resort in Las Vegas and the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club in Dana Point.
Arceo will share insights on how professionals can create meaningful guest experiences through service excellence, operational strategy and the thoughtful use of technology. His talk will offer timely perspective for students, industry professionals and anyone interested in the evolving hospitality landscape.
The keynote presentation reflects a growing partnership between The Collins College — ranked among the Top 10 hospitality programs in the world — and the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, which has invested $200,000 in student success initiatives at the college, supporting scholarships, outreach and recruitment efforts, as well as $600,000 to support transfer students to Cal Poly Pomona. The collaboration also includes a talent pipeline connecting Collins College graduates with career opportunities at Yaamava’, reinforcing a shared commitment to workforce development and industry leadership.
The Richard Frank Distinguished Lecture is complimentary and open to the Cal Poly Pomona community, including students, alumni and industry professionals. Advance registration via Eventbrite is required.
